Relating to the authority of physicians and physician assistants to form certain entities.
Impact
If enacted, HB 2098 would amend existing laws under the Business Organizations Code and the Occupations Code to provide a statutory framework for collaboration between physicians and physician assistants. This framework would enable both roles to engage more effectively in joint practice settings, fostering cooperative patient care models. Additionally, the legislation mandates that physician assistants may only hold minority interests in these entities, ensuring that control and management remain predominantly in the hands of physicians. This change aims to promote professional collaboration while safeguarding the integrity of medical practice standards.
Summary
House Bill 2098, concerning the authority of physicians and physician assistants in Texas, aims to clarify and extend the ability of these practitioners to form business entities for providing professional services. The proposed changes allow licensed physicians and physician assistants to establish corporations or partnerships to support medical care delivery, educational initiatives, and research activities, provided these services fall within their respective scopes of practice. The legislation stipulates that any entity created must be led by physicians, establishing a clear governance structure while limiting the roles that physician assistants can occupy within these organizations.
Contention
Potential points of contention surrounding HB 2098 include debates about the extent of autonomy that physician assistants should have in business operations and their restriction to minority ownership. Some stakeholders may argue that these limitations could hinder the professional growth and opportunities for physician assistants, who are essential to the healthcare system. Conversely, proponents emphasize the importance of maintaining strict controls within medical practices to ensure that patient care remains a physician-led priority, thus reflecting ongoing discussions about the balance of authority within the healthcare profession.
Relating to the regulation of physicians, the disciplinary authority of the Texas Medical Board, and the administration of the Texas Physician Health Program; increasing a criminal penalty; imposing a surcharge.
Relating to the licensing and regulation of associate physicians and the authority of an insured to select an associate physician under the insured's health insurance policy; requiring an occupational license.